Teenager with major injuries airlifted from Willits area accident

A helicopter airlifted a 17-year-old female passenger to the hospital after she received major injuries during an accident near Willits on Thursday night.

According to a press release, Cody Cassidy, 25, was driving a 1994 Nissan Frontier pickup truck north on U.S. Highway 101. At approximately 6:40 p.m., as it neared the CHP truck scales, the truck drifted to the right shoulder. Cassidy braked, but was unable to avoid leaving the roadway. The truck struck a tree on the east side of the highway.

CHP Special Duty Officer Michael Phelps said the truck received major damage.

Cassidy and his passenger crawled out of the truck. Cassidy waved down a passerby, and emergency services were dispatched. Cassidy suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital in Willits. The passenger suffered major injuries and was transported by helicopter to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. Highway 101 was closed for approximately 15 minutes while the helicopter landed and transported the passenger.

Cassidy was interviewed by the investigating officer at the scene and at the hospital. It was determined he was not under the influence.